AFC Announces Promotions, New Hires

The American Federation for Children is pleased to announce the promotions and additions of several new team members, including two Future Leaders Fellowship alumni, and the continued buildout of our Implementation and Communications teams.

Statement from Tommy Schultz, CEO, American Federation for Children:

“We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to AFC, and these promotions and changes to scale up our effectiveness at a critical time. These individuals, which include two bright young leaders from our Future Leaders Fellowship, represent our commitment to building out a world-class team and continuing to advance our shared mission.”

Rebekah Bydlak is being promoted into the role of Vice President of Communications, where she will oversee AFC’s state and national communications infrastructure and collaborate with other AFC teams and external partners to advance the mission of education freedom. Previously Deputy Vice President of Communications and Development, Rebekah brings deep communications and nonprofit leadership experience to her new role that will ensure AFC shares the message of education freedom effectively across mediums.

Elizabeth BeShears is taking on the new role of National Director of Implementation Marketing. Previously National Director of Communications Strategy, Elizabeth will bring extensive digital and marketing experience to take on the critical task of optimizing state and national strategies aimed at ensuring families know about and can fully exercise the education options available to them.

Michele Blood joined AFC as State Communications Specialist, where she will work closely with AFC’s state and regional teams to ensure that communications opportunities are maximized to advance the mission. Previously, Michele wrote and conducted research for clients including Fox News, the American Conservative Union, Townhall, and The Federalist. Michele holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi, where she wrote an award-winning dissertation.

Sharon Chavez joined AFC as Communications and Strategic Initiatives Associate, where she will focus on supporting AFC’s communications work, particularly Federación Americana para los Niños. A 2022 Future Leaders Fellow with AFC, Sharon is a graduate of the Milwaukee Parental Choice voucher program and passionate advocate for the rights of other students to access similar opportunities.

Zachary Harnden joined AFC as Government Affairs Associate, where he will work closely with AFC’s regional leadership to advance school choice in statehouses across the country. A 2023 Future Leaders Fellow with AFC, Zach benefited from school choice in Iowa and is excited to advance school choice for the next generation of students.

Mike Hennessy has been promoted to the role of Digital Director, where he will oversee the optimization and growth of AFC’s digital presence, executing digital marketing initiatives to advance our mission and expand our reach. Previously Deputy Director of Digital Strategy, Mike brings extensive experience that will continue to ensure AFC has a competitive edge.

Colton Johnson has been promoted to the role of Creative Director, where he will oversee AFC’s national branding vision, social media presence, and visual strategy, playing a key role in shaping how the organization communicates its mission and values. Deeply involved across all of AFC’s departments and teams, Colton’s work will continue elevating AFC’s external branding and messaging.